The Rapid + The WGVU Morning Show: Moving Forward with E-Fare

“One of the big benefits of e-fare is the time savings. At some stops, people boarding are fumbling with change or their tickets and it can take a long time for the bus to get going again. This should speed up the boarding process and allow for buses to run fasters and more on time. – Kevin Wisselinkg, Senior Planner at The Rapid”

Our e-fare system will consist of smart cards and mobile ticketing. You’ll be able to purchase fares or add funds to your e-fare account (linked to your smart card or mobile ticketing smartphone app) by visiting the e-fare website online via your smartphone or desktop, at ticket vending machines, or at the Information Center at Rapid Central Station. There will also be a retail network where smart cards will be sold at a variety of locations throughout our service area including supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies. You even had the option to set up auto-load to have your account add funds from a linked debit or credit card when funds are low!

Using e-fare will make riding The Rapid faster, easier and more convenient. Just tap your smart card or scan your mobile ticketing smartphone app as you board the bus to pay your fare. There will be a validator located near the farebox to do this.

However, to successfully transition to e-fare, we’re proposing a few changes to our current fare structure to fully utilize the new technology, expedite the boarding process and better accommodate passengers. We’re holding public meetings to in various locations through April 27 to gather feedback.

Proposed Changes

– Elimination of 10-Ride Tickets

– Implementation of a pay-as-you-go way to purchase a pass

– Implementation of more convenient reloadable account options through e-fare

– Elimination of the sale of tickets on the bus

– Implementation of new 90-minute, paper-free transfer time frame with e-fare

– Elimination of paper transfers with cash fare

– Discontinuation of change cards

Learn more about e-fare by listening to our chat with Shelley here. If you have questions about e-fare, join us at one of our public meetings.

Written by The Rapid

The Rapid (Interurban Transit Partnership) is the authority that provides a variety of public transportation services for the Grand Rapids metro area and beyond. It is organized and operates under Michigan Public Act 196 of 1986.

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